Cemetery-As-A-Park: Lynchburg's Old City Cemetery

It was time to take a brief trip out of town, and we went searching for something unique to do that wouldn't take tons of time or energy in honor of Justin's birthday.  Kim hit the Roanoke Valley Convention and Visitors' Center, and upon picking up a pamplet featuring Lynchburg's Old City Cemetery, the where-to-go decision was easy.  We've been to Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, Virginia, and we've read all about how the Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, area developed as a park/burial ground.  Our little trip to Lynchburg provided similar fascination--and a quick getaway from the Roanoke area as we awaited baby Gwen.

In short, the cemetery is a delightful place for an interesting garden walk.  There are civil war period graves, there's an ash garden for pets, and there's a pretty little garden pond. The cemetery also features several "museums," perhaps better termed displays and exhibits, that are worth a stop to hear the associated audio.  We especially enjoyed the Pest House Medical Museum, an interesting glimpse into hygeine and health in early Lynchburg, and the Hearse House and Caretakers' Museum, a memorial of sorts to those who've maintained the impressive cemetery grounds.  Expect to see some minor archeological digging and to be welcomed by friendly staff in the Cemetery Center (do plan to go when the center is open, typically 10-3 Monday-Saturday).  Think about the number of staff and volunteers dedicated to the site--it's impressive!  One challenge: parking, especially on the prom weekend we visited--many teens were on site to be photographed with their dates.    Consider planning your visit when you can most enjoy a nice walk, probably in the Virginia spring or fall. 

When in the Lynchburg area, we always have to direct families with kids to Little Dickens, a fabulous book-and-brainy-toys store that also features a small cafe and a wide selection of used books for various audiences.  One can find local interest books here as well.  Too bad their website does not seem to be accessible as we blog--but do GPS their address, 2236 Lakeside Drive. 

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